Senior Hardware Test and Integration Engineer

This is a hands-on technical role that focuses on researching, evaluating, and testing IoT hardware (sensors, devices, etc.) to be integrated with Prism (our IoT software platform) and used for customer IoT applications. This will usually be customer-supplied or third-party hardware, but is also sometimes custom hardware that we design. The primary responsibilities include turning application objectives into requirements for target device functionality, interoperability considerations, and fitness for purpose, then using that information to source hardware for evaluation, design suitable test plans and environments, and carrying out pre-integration functional testing and post-integration QA testing.

This role focuses on the solutions that reliably connect numerous edge devices sensors, actuators, embedded controllers, etc. to Prism. The main goal is to ensure that these devices interact seamlessly and securely within our ever-expanding IoT ecosystem, across a range of differing field conditions, using various data interfaces and communications technologies.

Key Responsibilities

Hardware Selection

• Research, evaluate, and recommend IoT hardware suited to specific application requirements (e.g., sensors, gateways, actuators, controllers, etc.).
• Compare features, data protocols, power requirements, environmental factors, security, integration feasibility, etc., of customer-supplied, third-party, and custom hardware.
• Identify and document operational characteristics, strengths, and limitations of a device s intended use scenario.

Evaluation

• Design and document test plans and conduct evaluation testing of candidate hardware to validate suitability for its intended purpose.
• As required, design and build test environments necessary to simulate field conditions.
• As required, include tests for downstream components, data interfaces, and communications options.

Integration

• Define and document integration requirements for use by application developers.
• Plan and conduct hands-on validation of hardware setup, configuration, and functionality for use with Prism.
• Test device connectivity, data flow, and reliability across functional and failure scenarios.
• Set up and test devices in simulated lab environments that replicate real-world scenarios like network conditions, device interactions, and communications.
• Work with communications vendors, like cellular MNOs or MVNOs to establish communications for devices and test reliability and failover scenarios.

QA Testing & Troubleshooting

• Perform end-to-end testing of integrated hardware to ensure continued compatibility with application software and device firmware updates and enhancements.
• Tier 3 troubleshooting of integration issues, working with developers, engineers, vendors, and customers as needed, both pre- and post-deployment.

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Serve as a knowledge resource on capabilities and limitations of integrated hardware for engineers, developers, project managers, and customers.
• Communicate findings, integration options, and potential risks to both technical and business stakeholders.
• Document test plans, test environments, test procedures, and results.

Vendor & Technology Research

• Monitor emerging device technologies, new product offerings, and industry trends, regularly updating candidate device lists and compatibility matrices.
• Establish and maintain relationships with hardware and communications vendors to stay informed on product updates and development roadmaps.

Skills & Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge and hands-on experience with technologies typically found in IoT:
• hardware (gateways, sensors, actuators, edge computing, etc.)
• device interfaces (RS-232, RS-485, Ethernet, Modbus, BACnet, USB, etc.)
• data protocols and formats (MQTT, CoAP, JSON, XML, raw TCP/UDP, etc.)
• wired and wireless communication technologies (satellite, cellular, LoRaWAN, WiFi, Bluetooth/BLE, etc.)
• test and emulation equipment and software used for monitoring, troubleshooting, and simulating these technologies
• Experience with IoT hardware categories, capabilities, and communications protocols.
• Experience integrating various kinds of hardware into IoT solutions.
• Experience with routers, firewalls, and WiFi networks
• Experience with RESTful APIs, device provisioning, security, authentication, and data interoperability.
• Strong diagnostic, troubleshooting, and vendor communication skills.
• Ability to review technical documentation, perform comparative analysis, and synthesize actionable recommendations for platform or application teams.
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Electronics, Computer Engineering, etc.) or equivalent experience, with hands-on experience in IoT or systems integration.

Bonus Skills that will Come in Handy

• Experience with scripting in JavaScript, Python, Bash, etc.
• Familiarity with Test Automation and CI/CD
• Familiarity with Linux systems
• Familiarity with cloud computing services like AWS
• Familiarity with log aggregation like Elastic Stack
• Familiarity with Regulatory Compliance & Certifications (FCC, CE, UL, etc.)
• Experience with 3D printing and/or CNC
• Exposure to other IoT platforms

Some of the Tools, Equipment, and Technologies We Use

• Wireshark and tcpdump
• NE-ONE Software Defined Network Emulator
• OpenWRT with netem
• Digital Programmable Attenuators
• Various emulators and simulators (for Modbus, MQTT, USB, 4-20mA, etc.)
• Hundreds of IoT Devices
• Wireless: LoRaWAN, cellular, BLE
• Wired: Modbus, Ethernet, serial, 4-20mA
• LoRaWAN Gateways
• Cellular Routers
• WiFi Routers
• Edge Devices
• Z-Wave & Zigbee Gateways
• DC Power Supplies and Load Simulators
• Power Profilers
• Digital Oscilliscopes
• Waveform Generators
• Multimeters
• 3D Printers

About Object Spectrum (For the Bold, Curious, and Driven)

Are you someone who thrives on action, challenges the status quo, and loves to dive into new technology? At ObjectSpectrum, this is exactly the energy we look for. We build powerful, reliable Internet of Things (IoT) solutions with Prism, our platform where creativity, curiosity, and a get-it-done spirit shape every project.

If you see problems as puzzles to solve, love tinkering with hardware and software, and see learning as a lifelong adventure, you'll fit right in. We re a remote-first, collaborative team of engineers, developers, and designers who believe progress comes from honest feedback, relentless curiosity, and the courage to try, test, and improve new solutions.

What drives us:

• Bias for action: We value self-starters and innovators who take initiative and aren't afraid to experiment with new ideas or tech.
• Challengers welcome: Your voice matters challenge how things are done, suggest better ways, and help us raise the bar.
• Integrity & honesty: Open, transparent communication and trusting each other is how we build and deliver great products.
• Growth mindset: Don't just bring your skills bring your curiosity and your hunger for learning. We support your growth with education opportunities, mentorship from seasoned engineers, and the freedom to explore new technology.
• Real impact: Whether you're crafting a new solution or directly shaping customer experiences, your contribution will make a difference.

Beyond the paycheck:

• Flexible schedules and flexible PTO work in the way that fuels your creativity.
• Competitive pay, profit sharing, and comprehensive health plans (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, HSA).
• Support for your home office, plus budgets for conferences and continuous learning.
• A culture where diversity of thought and background is genuinely valued we know innovation comes from many perspectives.

If you love to push boundaries, test innovative solutions, and are eager to make an impact in the IoT space with smart, kind teammates, ObjectSpectrum is where you'll thrive. Join us and let's build something amazing together.